January 28, 2024 • Don Logan • 1 Samuel 1:19–28
Samuel has anointed Saul and announced him to the twelve tribes as Israel's first king. "Long live the king!" But last week's passage ended with an ominous cliffhanger: But some worthless fellows said, "How can this man (Saul) save us?" Chapter 11 begins with an enemy invasion of one of the young kingdom’s outlying territories. This passage provides a real-time answer to that rhetorical question....but the answer isn't obvious. Saul will get a second chance to embrace God's call and commission. Will he make the most of this do-over, or will he make the same mistake as last week?
Saul has been called and identified to kingship by the prophet of God. So now Samuel shares a path with Saul that will bring him more personal confirmation of his calling, and also provide an opportunity to initiate his role of protector, captain and savior of his people. Will Saul embrace his role, or will he avoid and abandon his calling?
"God moves in a mysterious way, his wonders to perform; he plants his footsteps in the sea, and rides upon the storm. Deep in unfathomable mines, of never-failing skill; he fashions up his bright designs, and works his sovereign will." William Cowper I Samuel 9 is all about the unfathomable providence of God. Donkeys go missing, and Israel finds her King. In a series of disconnected, random and normal events, we will see through to the other side of the tapestry, and notice that they are connected, planned and miraculous.
